Miyajima Ropeway Complete Guide
The Miyajima Ropeway is a sightseeing ropeway connecting Miyajima, home to the World Heritage site Itsukushima Shrine, to the vicinity of the summit of Mt. Misen (535m above sea level). It allows you to ascend the mountain trail, which takes 1.5 to 2 hours on foot, in just about 15 minutes, efficiently offering stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the sacred site of Mt. Misen.
Basic Information on the Miyajima Ropeway
Route and Travel Time
The Miyajima Ropeway consists of two sections:
- Momijidani Station → Kayatani Station: Circular ropeway, approximately 10 minutes, elevation difference approximately 370m
- Kayatani Station → Shishiiwa Station: Reversible ropeway, approximately 4 minutes, elevation difference approximately 190m
The total travel time is approximately 15 minutes. From Shishiiwa Station to the Mt. Misen summit observation deck is approximately a 30-minute walk.
Operating Hours and Frequency
- December-February: 9:00-16:30
- March-October: 9:00-17:00
- November: 8:00-17:00 (Autumn foliage season)
- Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes (Runs more frequently during peak hours)
*Service may be suspended during severe weather such as strong winds or thunderstorms. We recommend checking the official website for service status in advance.
Fare System
| Category | Round-trip Fare | One-way Fare |
|——|———-|———-|
| Adult | ¥2,000 | ¥1,100 |
| Child | ¥1,000 | ¥550 |
*Children are defined as elementary school age and younger. One preschool child rides free with one paying adult.
Access Methods
From Miyajima Island to Momijidani Station
There are several ways to access the ropeway station (Momijidani Station) from Miyajima Pier.
Using the Free Shuttle Bus
- Boarding Location: Miyajima Maple Liner bus stop, 1 minute walk from Miyajima Pier
- Travel Time: Approximately 10 minutes
- Operating Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes
- Fare: Free
- Operating Hours: Operates in accordance with the ropeway’s operating hours
Access on Foot
- From Miyajima Pier: Approximately 25 minutes (approx. 2km)
- From Itsukushima Shrine: Approximately 20 minutes (approx. 1.5km)
- Route: From the exit of Itsukushima Shrine, pass through Momijidani Park to Momijidani Station
Momijidani Park is beautiful with its fresh greenery in spring and autumn foliage, making it a great place to stroll around. Especially from mid- to late November, approximately 700 maple trees change color, offering a magnificent view.
Access to Miyajima from the Mainland
JR Ferry / Miyajima Matsudai Kisen
- From Miyajimaguchi Pier: Approximately 10 minutes by ferry
- Fare: Adults 200 yen, Children 100 yen
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes (JR and Matsudai Kisen operate alternately)
- JR Ferry Benefits: Some services take a route that gets closest to the Great Torii Gate
High-Speed Boat from Hiroshima City
- From Hiroshima Port (near Peace Park): Approximately 25 minutes by high-speed boat
- Fare: Adults 2,200 yen, Children 1,100 yen
- Advantages: Shorter travel time than via Miyajimaguchi, easier to combine with sightseeing in Hiroshima city
Highlights and Points of Worship on Mt. Misen
Shishiiwa Observatory (Ropeway Terminal)
From the observatory located immediately after alighting at Shishiiwa Station, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the many islands of the Seto Inland Sea.
- View: See the islands of Setonaikai National Park; on clear days, you can even see the Shikoku Mountains.
- Facilities: Observation deck, rest area, and restrooms available.
- Estimated Time Required: A stay of 15-20 minutes at the observation deck is recommended.
Hiking Trail to the Summit of Mt. Misen (30-minute walk from Shishiiwa Station)
The hiking trail from Shishiiwa Station to the summit is well-maintained.
Main Spots
Kuguri-iwa (Passing Through Rock)
- A mysterious geological formation where one passes under a giant rock
- A sacred site where Kobo Daishi is said to have trained
- It is believed that wishes will come true if one passes through the rock
Reikado (Sacred Fire Hall)
- Importance: ★★★★★ (Must-see)
- Features: The “eternal flame” lit by Kobo Daishi in 806 has been burning for over 1200 years
- Benefits: The sacred water boiled with this fire is said to cure all illnesses and can be freely drunk
- Connection to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Used as the source of the flame for the Flame of Peace
- Time Required: 15-20 minutes for worship and rest
Sankido (Three Demon Hall)
- Dedicates the three demon gods of fortune, wisdom, and eloquence
- Benefits for business prosperity and academic success
Misen Hondo (Miyama Shrine)
- The main hall is located near the summit of Mt. Misen.
- Dedicated to Kokuzo Bosatsu (Akasagarbha Bodhisattva)
- A sacred site of the Shingon sect founded by Kobo Daishi (Kukai)
Mt. Misen Summit Observation Deck
From the 535m-high summit, a 360-degree panoramic view unfolds.
- View: Islands of the Seto Inland Sea, Hiroshima city, and on clear days, even Mt. Ishizuchi (Ehime Prefecture)
- Words of Hirobumi Ito: The first Prime Minister of Japan, Hirobumi Ito, praised it, saying, “The true value of the Three Views of Japan lies in the view from the summit of Mt. Misen.”
- Photo Spot: The beautiful view of the many islands from the observation deck is a highlight of Miyajima sightseeing.
- Crowd Situation: Particularly crowded during the autumn foliage season in November and during the long spring holidays.
Benefits and Power Spots of Visiting Mt. Misen
Benefits of Mt. Misen as a Whole
Mt. Misen has long been an object of mountain worship and is known as a sacred mountain opened by Kukai (Kobo Daishi).
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: The entire sacred mountain is a powerful spiritual spot.
- Protection from Evil and Disaster: By the protection of Kobo Daishi.
- Matchmaking: Also recognized as a sacred place for lovers.
- Health and Longevity: By drinking the sacred water from the Reikado Hall.
Major Power Spots
The Eternal Flame (Reikado Hall)
- Benefits: Healing from illness, health and longevity, family safety.
- How to Worship: Join your hands in prayer inside the Reikado Hall and drink the sacred water (cups are provided).
- Caution: As this is a sacred place, please worship quietly.
The Underpass Rock
- Benefits: Fulfillment of wishes, good fortune.
- How to Worship: Pass under the rock while silently reciting your wish.
The Tidal Rock (Kanman-iwa)
- A mysterious rock located near the summit.
- It is said that the water accumulated in the rock’s hollow rises and falls in accordance with the tides.
- Benefits: Witnessing mysterious phenomena brings good fortune.
Etiquette and Manners for Visiting the Shrine
- Attire: Comfortable clothing and walking shoes (sneakers recommended)
- Items to Bring: Drinking water, towel, rain gear (in case of weather changes)
- Visiting Time: Allow at least 2 hours for a round trip to the summit, or 3 hours if you want to explore at a leisurely pace.
- Manners: As this is a sacred site, please refrain from shouting or making noise.
- Photography: Note that photography is prohibited in some areas inside the Reikado Hall.
Hiking Route Options
Recommended for Those Using the Ropeway
- Those who are not confident in their physical fitness, the elderly, or those with small children
- Those who want to sightsee efficiently in a limited time
- A round trip to the summit is possible in approximately 2 hours using the ropeway.
Hiking Route
If you are confident in your physical fitness, walking the hiking trail is also an option.
Daishoin Route
- Estimated Time: Ascent approx. 90 minutes, Descent approx. 60 minutes
- Features: The most well-maintained route, many stone steps
- Highlights: Niomon Gate, Fudo-iwa Rock, etc.
Momijidani Route
- Estimated Time: Ascent approx. 100 minutes, Descent approx. 70 minutes
- Features: A nature-rich route passing through Momijidani Park
- Recommended Season: Autumn foliage season in November
Omoto Route
- Estimated Time: Ascent approx. 120 minutes, Descent approx. 90 minutes
- Features: The longest distance, but with a gentle slope
- Highlights: Primeval forest, giant trees
Recommended Plan: Choosing the Daishoin Route, taking the ropeway up and walking down, allows you to enjoy hiking while conserving energy.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May)
- Cherry Blossoms: Enjoy cherry blossoms at Momijidani Park in early April.
- Fresh Greenery: The entire mountain turns a vibrant green in May.
- Climate: Ideal temperatures for hiking, but those with hay fever should take precautions.
Summer (June-August)
- Cool: The mountaintop is about 5 degrees Celsius cooler than the city.
- Caution: Heatstroke prevention is essential; stay hydrated.
- Evening Views: Sunset is late in summer, making for beautiful twilight scenery.
Autumn (September-November)
- Autumn Leaves: Peak season is mid-to-late November.
- Momijidani Park: Approximately 700 maple trees change color.
- Crowds: This is the busiest time; early morning visits are recommended.
- Ropeway: Operation begins at 8:00 AM in November.
Winter (December-February)
- Snowy Scenery: A fantastical view when snow falls (a few times a year)
- Air Clarity: The air is clear in winter, allowing for expansive views.
- Caution: Warm clothing is essential; hiking trails are dangerous when icy.
Combination with surrounding sightseeing
Combination with Itsukushima Shrine
Recommended Model Course (Estimated Time: Approx. 5-6 Hours)
- Arrive at Miyajima Pier (9:00)
- Visit Itsukushima Shrine (9:30-10:30)
- Stroll through Momijidani Park (10:30-11:00)
- Take the ropeway to Mt. Misen (11:00-13:30)
- After descending, have lunch and shop at Omotesando Shopping Street (13:30-15:00)
- Depart from Miyajima Pier (15:30)
Miyajima Gourmet
Specialty dishes to enjoy before and after climbing Mt. Misen:
- Anago-meshi: A Miyajima specialty, the plump conger eel is exquisite.
- Oyster dishes: Especially delicious in winter (November-February).
- Momiji Manju: A classic souvenir, fried momiji manju are also popular.
- Miyajima Beer: Toast with local craft beer!
Notes and Useful Information
Safety Precautions
- Weather Check: Always check the weather forecast before climbing.
- Wildlife: Deer and monkeys can be found, but feeding them is strictly prohibited.
- Beware of Falling Rocks: Pay attention to what’s above you on the hiking trail.
- Sunset Time: Allow ample time for descent (check the time of the last ferry).
Checklist of Items to Bring
- Drinking water (500ml or more)
- Towel/Sweat wipes
- Rain gear (folding umbrella or rainwear)
- Sunscreen/Hat
- Insect repellent spray (summer)
- Smartphone (for map app and emergency contact)
- Mobile battery
Special Offers
- JAF Member Discount: 10% discount on ropeway fares
- Group Discount: 10% discount for groups of 15 or more
- Disability Discount: Half price for the person with a disability and one caregiver
Contact Information
- Miyajima Ropeway: 0829-44-0316
- Miyajima Tourism Association: 0829-44-2011
- Operating Status Check: Check on the official website or by phone on the day of travel
Summary: Enjoy the charm of Mt. Misen with the Miyajima Ropeway
The Miyajima Ropeway is the best way to efficiently experience the profound charm of Miyajima, a World Heritage island. Mt. Misen, a sacred mountain opened by Kobo Daishi, awaits you with an eternal flame that has burned for over 1200 years, a 360-degree panoramic view, and numerous power spots.
Beyond visiting Itsukushima Shrine, be sure to take the ropeway up to Mount Misen and experience the true value of one of Japan’s three most scenic spots. The ever-changing nature of the seasons, the mystique of the sacred site, and the breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea will create unforgettable memories.
